Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common condition that affects both men and women and can lead to a variety of symptoms. PFD occurs when the muscles of the pelvic floor become weakened or tight, resulting in a loss of function. The pelvic floor muscles are responsible for supporting the bladder, uterus, and rectum and for controlling the release of urine and faeces.
Symptoms of PFD
- Urinary incontinence – difficulty controlling the release of urine, including leakage or a strong urge to urinate
- Faecal incontinence – difficulty controlling the release of faeces, including leakage or a strong urge to have a bowel movement
- Pelvic pain – pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back
- Sexual dysfunction – difficulty with sexual activity or pain during intercourse
- Prolapse – this is a condition where the pelvic organs (such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum) bulge into or out of the vagina
- Constipation – difficulty passing stool or a feeling of incomplete bowel movement.
What are the reasons for PFD?
- Childbirth – Pregnancy and childbirth can cause damage to the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue, leading to PFD.
- Age – As we age, the muscles and connective tissue of the pelvic floor can become weakened, making them more susceptible to PFD.
- Constipation – Straining during bowel movements can put extra pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to PFD.
- Obesity – Excess weight can put extra pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to PFD.
- Chronic cough or sneezing – Chronic coughing or sneezing can put extra pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to PFD.
- Surgery – Some surgeries, such as hysterectomy or prostate surgery can damage the pelvic floor muscles and lead to PFD.
- Neurological conditions – Certain neurological conditions, such as multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury can affect the function of the pelvic floor muscles and lead to PFD.
- Hormonal changes – Hormonal changes that occur during menopause can affect the pelvic floor muscles and lead to PFD.
It’s important to note that PFD can have multiple causes, and a thorough examination by a healthcare professional is needed to determine the underlying causes and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
How physiotherapy can help you manage the symptoms
One of the primary ways that physiotherapy can help with PFD is through pelvic floor muscle exercises, also known as Kegel exercises. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles in order to improve their strength and endurance. Physiotherapists can teach patients how to properly perform these exercises and monitor their progress to ensure that they are being done correctly.
Another way that physiotherapy can help with PFD is through manual therapy techniques. These techniques involve the physiotherapist using their hands to manipulate the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor in order to release tension and improve function. This can help to reduce pain and discomfort and improve overall function of the pelvic floor muscles.
In addition to these specific techniques, physiotherapy can also help with PFD by addressing any related issues that may be contributing to the condition. For example, if a patient has poor posture or muscle imbalances, these issues can be addressed through exercise and manual therapy in order to improve overall function and reduce symptoms.
Overall, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the management of pelvic floor dysfunction. Through pelvic floor muscle exercises, manual therapy, and addressing related issues, physiotherapy can help to improve the function and reduce the symptoms of the pelvic floor muscles, leading to improved quality of life for those with PFD. At Home Physio Group, our physiotherapists can help you manage the symptoms of PFD.
For more information please contact us on 0207 096 0684 or alternatively please fill out our contact sheet and we will get back to you.